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September 14, 2013

Why don’t more camera companies license this tech?

I just bought a Canon 70D largely on the promise of finally capturing good-looking video thanks to its new autofocus prowess. Unfortunately noise from the lens (a 24-70mm L series) is very audible (here’s a bit I just recorded). I suspect the problem is common to other cameras/lenses, though I’d welcome suggestions about quieter glass.

In the course of researching how I might nuke this crap via Adobe Audition, I stumbled upon the oddly named VideoZizzle, technology that profiles lens noise & scrubs it from recordings. Here’s an unglamorous but effective little demo:

It seems the tech has been around for a while, and while I’m disappointed that it apparently isn’t integrated into my camera, hope springs eternal that it or something similar will proliferate.

Comments

Let’s not let the innovative technology blind us to the fact that there’s a wascally wabbit running around on the damn bed.

J — 2:02 PM on September 14, 2013

Because it requires processing in post not live. If it were running live, it means all audio would be filtered by the same noise profile which can result in an undesired sound (especially in dialogue). If it were a selective process based on movement of the lens, then there would need to be a slight delay in the recording to disk for both audio and video otherwise sync issues can occur. This could be highly problematic based on type of lens or manufacturer of lens. Ideally for recording audio, you should have a separate mic and recording device. Most video editing software can sync the audio only to the video/audio captured from the mic on the camera easily. This is a better process, as there is no need for such a program like VideoZizzle. Otherwise, you can still edit out such noises manually in Audition by editing the spectrum.

Lars — 2:08 PM on September 14, 2013

well now you see how frustrating it is toi knwo soemthing coudl be better and the damn companys dont do it…. welcome to our world as adobe customers…..

Sekkyo — 2:20 PM on September 14, 2013

STM (stepping motors) have come back into the fold because they’re so quiet you cannot hear them when recording audio. Canon is doing a lot of work in this regard, but as far as I know Nikon is not. They’re a bit slower on focusing, but silent.

can anything be done about the blasted random and annoying “hey buddy” ?

ed — 7:32 PM on September 14, 2013

I suggest a external video mike. I like Rode which has a cut filter that takes care of sounds like air conditioners but there are many cheaper ones that will greatly improve your audio. also get a dead cat.

I have not been brave enough to try (since Canon might discuss your warranty coverage) but it certainly has a number of interesting features that Canon has not supported yet.

Pat — 9:55 PM on September 17, 2013

Outside of some amazing on camera hardware tech to cancel out the motor noise, I woud recommend you try out iZotope RX, it’s been a god send for me. It can get rid of background noises like motors or the ocean or noisy crowds. Also great for removing random noises like cell phones or car horns that could other wise ruin some dialog tracks where I could only get one take.